Oh, to be a Nomad

“Remember what Bilbo used to say: It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.”
--J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

On Sunday Kary gave me a wake up call which was so nice of him! I then packed up and started on my journey to the east coast. The distance between Carlisle and Newcastle is about 50 miles. So add a few more miles to that and that is the width of Northern England (at least at this parallel)! The train ride was relaxing. The train is a great way to travel here as a visitor. It was the first clear day in a week and it was beautiful! Thousands of sheep, lots of cows, a few horses and a donkey-all scattered along the countryside. I tried to take some pictures but the train was moving too fast for the camera to focus. Sorry!

When I got to Durham, I walked from the train station to the hotel. I didn't think there would be so many people out...I guess I am just used to Sunday in Utah. Upon checking into the hotel, they had a note saying that I had requested the same room I had my first night in the country. I don't remember doing that, but I wasn't going to complain about getting a suite! The room wasn't ready yet so I left my bags and went out exploring. I found a cafe that had a killer chicken pot pie. I sat there and admired the wonderful weather while eating my wonderful American food. After I ate, I walked around the village. It is a beautiful place.

Yesterday, Monday, I spent my first day in the Sunderland area. It is a beautiful part of the country. This area is a bit more populated than Carlisle, with similar scenery.

Today, I am in Stockton-on-Tees which is near Middlesbrough (spelling?). I am working out of the Head Office today. The drive took about an hour, it's about 36 miles from Durham where I am staying. Don't worry, I didn't drive myself. Driving is not something I think I would EVER try here. That is like writing your own death certificate.

Last night was the best night so far. I went to dinner with two other company employees. We laughed all night. They have known each other for almost 10 years and have had many travelling adventures together. Because of that, they told me some of their best stories. They are hilarious when they are together! My meal last night was pretty tasty. Pot Roast with potatoes. Then we all got a dessert--Chocolate Truffle. Oh my. Divine.

I don't have any new pictures today, I might be able to upload some tomorrow. Until then.